Why People Snore
Everybody knows what snoring is and how it generally sounds like. Scientifically speaking, it is a rough sound created by breathing through the nose in a certain way that causes a vibration of the soft palate. The sound created is because there is an irregular passage of air at places in the mouth where there may be partial obstruction of breathing. Snoring sounds may vary from soft to loud, but is usually irritating to anyone kept awake because of it.
Snoring is not a big problem for most people. As a matter of fact, nearly everyone snores occasionally. People usually think men snore more than women do, but it can happen to anyone. Young or old, male or female… Literally anyone could be snoring and not even know it. It is believed though that men and overweight people tend to snore more often. In children, and other people, adenoids may cause snoring as well.
Snoring may be caused by other factors. While sleeping, a partial relaxation of the muscles that hold the vocal cords can happen. They end up going close together and obstruct air passage.
Snoring may also happen when a person lies on his back in a deep sleep or when unconscious. During these times, the tongue may fall back and partially closes the opening where air passes. This is what causes “stertor,” a noisy breathing that usually happens in concussions and apoplexy.
Mucus accumulation is another reason for snoring. Sometimes, it may collect in the nose or in the passages behind it, probably due to inflammation or irritation. It could also happen if the muscles of the throat and nose are abnormally tense, they can also interfere with air passing through. If the nose is blocked and the lips are very tight together, a whistling sound comes out as the air passes out.
Snoring is not that big of a deal. It seldom disturbs the person who snores. However, it can, as previously mentioned, annoy whoever else is awake. Often, changing sleeping positions will make the snoring stop temporarily.
ENT specialist Singapore – Find treatment for your cough today!